Royal Windsor Racecourse — set on a heart-shaped island in the Thames, one of only two figure-of-eight tracks in the UK and the only figure-of-eight flat racing track in the country. Racing history dates back to the reign of Henry VIII, with the first official meeting held in 1866. Winston Churchill himself watched his favourite horse win here. Spanning 165 acres, it is famous nationwide for its summer Monday Night Racing — leave work in London, jump on a train, arrive in Windsor 55 minutes later, walk 10 minutes along the river to the track, and enjoy 7 flat races, live music and champagne parties in the sunset over the Thames. 2026 sees the return of 4 National Hunt meetings, including New Year's Day Racing and the Berkshire Winter Million. A half-day in-depth tour includes track parade, 1866 panoramic restaurant dining and full after-party experience.
From the unique geometry of the figure-of-eight track to the panoramic dining at 1866 Restaurant, from the military bands of Monday Night Racing to the sunset parties on the Thames — experience the pinnacle of 300 years of racing heritage and British social culture
Take a train from London Waterloo (approx 55 minutes) to Windsor & Eton Riverside, then walk 10 minutes along the Thames path to the racecourse entrance — or take the French Brothers river boat from central Windsor, a 10-minute scenic water arrival. Arrive 1 hour before gates open (around 16:00), first tour the figure-of-eight track and the pre-race Parade Ring to observe thoroughbreds warming up. Enjoy a three-course dinner at the 1866 Restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the track and Thames. The first race starts at approximately 17:45, with 7 flat races continuing until 20:15, interspersed with themed musical performances. After the racing, a DJ party continues on the lawns late into the night, with trains back to London arriving well before 23:00. This is the UK's most unique "after-work racing" experience.
The flagship restaurant named after the racecourse's founding year, with floor-to-ceiling panoramic glass facing the track and Thames, just 50 yards from the finish line. Award-winning chef-designed three-course menu, welcome Prosecco, seafood platter and reserved table all included. Window-side tables cost an extra £10/person; book at least 5 days in advance. Average £102-£130 per person.
Established in 1892, Windsor's only riverside pub and restaurant, a short walk from the racecourse. On fine days, sit on the Thames balcony with a breeze and enjoy classic fish and chips with a cold beer — the perfect refuelling stop before or after racing. TripAdvisor highly recommended. Average £15-£30 per person.
On race days, the Paddock Lawn in the Grandstand area transforms into a food market — Hotbox smoked meats from East London, Raymond Blanc French bakery, Mai Taiko Japanese street food, and classic British fish and chips from the Fish & Chip Shop. Paired with apple cider, cocktails and a champagne bar. Average £10-£25 per person.
Consistently ranked #1 on TripAdvisor in Windsor, specialising in Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine with a broad menu that rarely disappoints. Located on Peascod Street pedestrian high street, it's an excellent choice for pre-racing lunch or post-racing dinner. Average £20-£35 per person.
Windsor Racecourse is far more than Monday Night flat racing — if you time your visit right, these experiences will reveal a completely different side to this Thames island venue. The Berkshire Winter Million (22-24 January 2027) is a brand new National Hunt festival launched in 2025, with three consecutive days of high-value racing attracting the UK's top trainers and jockeys — a three-day pass costs just £40. New Year's Day Racing (1 January 2027) marks the return of a traditional winter fixture after 28 years away from Windsor, officially kicking off the National Hunt season. Post-Race Live Music ranges from Madness to Queen tribute bands, with legendary bands performing at every theme night.